Papia Ghosal, popularly known as the ‘Russian Chaiwali,’ has been compelled to close her tea shop in Kolkata’s Andul locality following alleged moral policing and gender bias.
A former corporate employee, Ghosal had left her job to pursue her entrepreneurial dream, setting up a roadside tea stall along National Highway 16 near Ankurhati, Domjur, just four months ago. Her shop gained significant popularity, but the attention brought unwarranted harassment, leading to its closure.
According to Ghosal, a poster resembling a fatwa was put up in the village, demanding her shop’s closure. Local club members accused her of “spoiling the environment” of the area and claimed her Instagram profile featured “inappropriate pictures” that attracted “anti-social elements.”
Speaking to a local news outlet, Ghosal expressed her frustration:
“Some people came and posted a notice ordering me to shut my shop. It was disheartening. They are anti-social elements. Although it is a minority-dominated area, I believe this is about mindset, not religion. Whether Hindu or Muslim, this is an issue of mentality. Local clubs demanded money, which I agreed to pay, but no one helped me, not even the administration. I want to reopen my shop. My appearance or clothing should not define my character.”
The local club members also alleged that Ghosal was not running the shop independently but was receiving outside assistance, which they claimed went against the village’s “norms.”
Ghosal has refuted all allegations and lodged a complaint with the Domjur police station. However, the police stated their inability to intervene, as the shop was located on government land along the highway.
Ghosal continues to question the discrimination she has faced:
“Why can’t I run my tea shop independently? Why should my character and integrity be questioned?”
